OpenLCBprotocol

OpenLCB Protocol

Introduction

OpenLCB defines a family of interoperating protocols for controlling model railroads. It is structured around some common concepts and separate implementations. The OpenLCB will be capable of supporting Accessory Control, Advanced Locomotive Control and even Multimedia and Rich Text features on the higher bandwidth networks. This protocol proposal will focus on OpenLCB Accessory Control with emphasis on CAN 2.0B but allowance has to be made for simple Locomotive Control and implementation of the OpenLCB protocol on other network technologies like Ethernet, Internet and others.

This proposal is based on a series of use cases that extend from a beginning modeller connecting up two boards to a huge modular layout put together by several clubs. To achieve this range, and to allow for future technologies, OpenLCB is defined so that it can communicate over CAN segments, within computers, and on network links.